"Moscow is resolutely speaking up for the talks resumed, and revived on their Israeli-Syrian and Israeli-Lebanese tracks. As Russia sees it, progress toward a dialogue will improve overall Mideastern developments. We approve the initiative of Damascus to give a new lease of life to peace efforts in the Middle East," said the Russian diplomat.
As he was commenting Iraqi developments, Mr. Saltanov said the situation demanded stepped-up international efforts to promote rule of the country passed to a lawful Iraqi government. Iraqi sovereignty is to be re-instituted as soon as possible. Whatever military presence in Iraq must have one sole aim-to support political work for its sovereignty and territorial integrity restored. There will be no exit at all out of the Iraqi crisis unless the United Nations gets more active in its settlement, he stressed.
While in Lebanon, Alexander Saltanov will meet with its President Emile Lahud, Michel Samaha, Minister of Information and acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other top functionaries of the host country.
